Roger Goodell’s hammer of justice came down hard on multiple parties during this whole ordeal; he clearly is making an example of the Saints.

It was reported that Vilma, starting linebacker for the Saints and leader on their defense, placed a $10,000 bounty on Brett Favre before the Saints and Minnesota Vikings met in the 2010 NFC Championship game (2009 season). Video of that game shows gruesome hit after hit, including multiple late violations that drew penalty flags.

With player safety taking the forefront of Goodell’s priorities lately, these seemingly over-the-top punishments are to deter egregious actions like this from ever happening again.

“It is the obligation of everyone, including the players on the field, to ensure that rules designed to promote player safety, fair play, and the integrity of the game are adhered to and effectively and consistently enforced. Respect for the men that play the game starts with the way players conduct themselves with each other on the field.”

Obviously Goodell did not show any favoritism with the players or coaches; Sean Peyton received a full year’s suspension, defensive assistant Joe Vitt is suspended for the first six games, and GM Mickey Loomis received a an eight-game suspension.

The Saints will have a hard time recovering in 2012 from this incident, but they will attempt to put it all behind them when everyone returns next season.